Shaloh House of Boston brought light and pride to the streets of Brighton Center on Thursday, December 26, with its 18th annual Chanukah Parade. Over 40 cars adorned with menorahs participated in this vibrant display of Chanukah celebration, spreading joy and Jewish pride throughout the community.
The parade featured over 80 children riding in style. Preschoolers were treated to a stretch SUV limo, while elementary school students enjoyed two large party buses decked out with menorahs in the windows. The parade made its way through the neighborhood, blasting lively Jewish music, with passersby waving, dancing, and sharing their support.
Several bochurim helped make this event such a great success. Mendel Rodkin, together with three more bochurim from Yeshiva New Haven and five rabbinical students from Shaloh House’s Smicha program, led by Rabbi Noginski, were instrumental in organizing and executing the event. Their dedication and hard work ensured everything ran smoothly and that the parade was a memorable experience for all.
Community leaders joined in the celebration, making the event even more special. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, District Attorney Kevin Hayden, a representative of the Israeli Consulate, and State Representative Kevin Honan addressed the crowd, emphasizing the significance of public displays of Jewish pride, especially in challenging times.
Rabbi Dan Rodkin, director of Shaloh House, reflected on the event’s powerful message: “Many participants expressed their excitement and told me how much pride they felt being Jewish. Especially after October 7, when antisemitism has been on the rise, people are tempted to shy away from expressing their Jewishness. This parade proved that we must not be shy. We must express our Jewish identity loud and clear.”
The children were especially thrilled, declaring the annual parade their favorite event of the year. In addition to the ride, they enjoyed a special magic show during a VIP reception with Mayor Wu, adding a touch of wonder to an already magical evening.
For nearly two decades, Shaloh House’s Chanukah Parade has been a beacon of Jewish pride and celebration, and this year’s event shone brighter than ever, reminding the community of the importance of standing tall and proud in their faith.
